Toronto's Top Outdoor Pools

Summer is here and in full swing! With (hopefully!) plenty of hot summer days ahead, the City of Toronto recently opened its outdoor pools, wading pools and splash pads. These facilities are a great way to escape the heat, so be sure to take advantage. Here are our choices for the top outdoor pools:** The ranking is based on the following criteria. Note: Only “A” and “P” ranking pools qualified for this list. **#1 Alex Duff memorial Pool: This outdoor pool is great for the entire family. Get back in shape with the 25-metre lap pool or watch the little ones slide down the two-storey waterslide before hitting the children’s splash pool. The lap pool has an access ramp, making it accessible for those who need some help getting in and out of the water. So there shouldn’t be any excuses as to why you can’t go!#2 Donald D. Summerville Outdoor pool: Since this 50-metre Olympic size pool is located on the beach (at Woodbine Park), you get the best of both worlds. Aside from the main pool, there are two others, a 25-metre training pool and a diving pool featuring five- and 10-metre diving boards. To make sure swimmers have the best experience, this facility is undergoing a $3.75-million renovation. Some of the updates include new mechanical equipment, accessibility upgrades and upgrades to the change rooms.#3Giovanni Caboto:It’s hard to ever get bored at Giovanni Caboto outdoor pool, as it is located in a huge recreation complex that includes J.J.P community centre, soccer fields, a ball hockey arena and a wadding pool. The Olympic size pool features a monster two-storey slide for children. But don’t worry – there are designated adult swim times in the afternoon and evening, so you can avoid the summer camp rush times during the day. #4Heron Park Outdoor Pool: If you’re looking for some green scenery while soaking up some sun, this is the pool for you. Nestled on a 4.7-hectare park on Lawrence Ave. E., the outdoor pool is surrounded by five tennis courts, a baseball diamond, a splash pad and a children’s playground.#5 High Park outdoor Pool:The picturesque setting makes High Park’s outdoor pool the perfect mini-getaway on a scorching hot day. Hidden behind the plethora of trees, the kid-friendly facility boasts a 23-metre pool for lane swimmers, a large wading pool, a splash pad and spiral waterslide for the younglings. Plus, parking and admission are free!#6 Ledbury Park outdoor pool: After a full day of shopping at the Yorkdale Shopping Centre, what better way to unwind than at the Ledbury Park outdoor pool? Located near Bathurst and Lawrence Ave. W., this outdoor pool is mommy-approved. With a splash pad and wading pool in the same area, you don’t have to worry about your little one running off to the big kids pool at the other end.#7 McGregor Park Outdoor Pool:Similar to Giovanni Caboto, the outdoor pool is not the only thing that deserves some bragging rights. This recreation centre also boasts two baseball diamonds, a soccer field, a tennis court and a massive splash pad. Plus, the adjacent community centre offers a wide range of programs for youth and adults – from fitness classes, to art workshops and swimming lessons. Talk about all-inclusive!#8 North Toronto Memorial Outdoor Pool: You never have to worry about the rain spoiling your swim plans, as this facility features two pools – an indoor and outdoor pool. The complex offers an on-site fitness centre, gymnasiums, meeting rooms, and multipurpose rooms. The pool is also easily accessible via public transportation, as it is a 10-minute walk from Eglinton subway station.#9 Northwood Community Centre: Located in the Jane and Sheppard area, this outdoor pool features a separate wading pool and a swirly two-storey slide – a favourite among kids, as they line up from the minute the pool opens until it closes. Since the community centre is situated on Northwood Park, the pool is surrounded by huge trees, which provide a gorgeous backdrop to a leisurely swim.#10 Pine Point Park Outdoor Pool:If you’re recovering from an injury, or want to soothe sore and aching muscles, then you must visit Pine Point Park’s therapeutic outdoor pool. The pool features special therapeutic jets and in-water benches, which allow you to sit back and enjoy while you soak up some summertime sun.#11 Rotary Peace Park Outdoor pool: The view from the outdoor pool is just spectacular, as it is located just steps away from Toronto’s waterfront! The newly renovated facility is beside a playground, a children’s splash pad, a tennis court and a baseball diamond. It’s truly a hub for those looking to have some fun in the sun!#12 Sunnyside- Gus Ryder Outdoor Pool: Say hello to Toronto’s largest outdoor pool. The 100-metre pool has designated lap lanes for the ambitious lane swimmer and a shallow area for kids, so parents have one less thing to worry about. With the lake just a stone’s throw away, it can really feel like an exotic vacation.